Love Makes a Family: Our Adoption Journey

One of the sweetest traditions we have built together began long before we ever imagined the life we are now hoping to grow. From the very beginning of our relationship, looking at Christmas lights has been our thing. It started when we were dating and has remained a cherished tradition ever since.

Both of us grew up piling into the car with our families on cold December nights, bundled in coats and scarves, driving slowly through neighborhoods glowing with lights. Those evenings were simple but magical; filled with laughter, familiar music, and a feeling that Christmas was something meant to be shared. When we found each other, it felt natural to carry that tradition forward together.

Pictures from our first Christmas season spent together.

Every year, we make time to do it intentionally. We grab hot cocoa; sometimes homemade, sometimes from a favorite stop along the way—crank up the Christmas music, and wander through streets and displays lit with warmth and joy. There’s something about the twinkling lights against the dark winter sky that invites reflection, gratitude, and togetherness. It slows us down and reminds us what matters most.

Pictures from our second, but first married, Christmas season together.

Christmas, for us, is sacred. It is a time to celebrate our Savior and His life, love, and light. One of the places that means the most to us during this season is the beautiful Christmas light display put on by our church. The lights aren’t just stunning; they are filled with rich, meaningful reminders of Jesus Christ and His story. Walking through those displays, we feel peace, hope, and a renewed sense of purpose. It’s a powerful reminder that Christ is the true light of the world, especially during a season that can sometimes feel busy or overwhelming.

As we look ahead to the family we hope to grow through adoption, this tradition holds even deeper meaning. We picture little hands wrapped around warm cups, excited voices pointing out favorite displays, and conversations that linger long after the cocoa is gone. We imagine sharing not just the beauty of the lights, but the why behind them, teaching our child about love, faith, and the joy of being together.

Pictures from our third Christmas season together.

More than anything, this tradition represents who we are as a family: people who value time together, who find joy in simple moments, and who center our lives on love, faith, and gratitude. We cannot wait to continue this tradition with our future child, creating memories, sharing warmth, and passing on the light that has meant so much to us.

Christmas lights may fade when the season ends, but the love and meaning behind this tradition is something we hope will shine for a lifetime.

Pictures from this Christmas season.